Graeme Coutts, chairman of UK-based oil flow technology leader Expro, will retire next month after more than 21 years of working at international oilfield company.

During his career with Expro he has held several prominent senior executive roles including; president western hemisphere and chief executive officer, before taking over as executive chairman in 2008.

On July 31, Graeme will step down as chairman and member of the board of directors.

“I have had a fantastic time in what I can only describe as a truly-outstanding company working in the world’s best industry, bar none,” said Coutts. “My days with Expro started in 1990 when I arrived at the invitation of a former colleague and I was immediately introduced to a company with great ambition and incredible energy. These qualities have kept me sufficiently motivated and interested to work my way to the very top.”

“My years running Expro remain the most enjoyable of my working career. However, as with all businesses and industries, the only thing that matters in the end is the people. I can honestly say I have been more fortunate than most having had the privilege of meeting so many great people in my 32 years in the industry.”

“I have done my time with Expro and have spent the past few years helping place the future of the company into new hands. That task is now complete and Expro’s new CEO, Charles Woodburn, is Expro’s future. I am leaving the business in good hands,” he added.

John Arney, a non-executive member of the Expro board, said: “It has been a real pleasure to work closely with Graeme throughout the past three years. From our partnership taking Expro private in 2008, the significant investments in organic growth initiatives and the execution of highly accretive acquisitions, I have witnessed first-hand Graeme’s deep knowledge of and passion for Expro and the industry in which the business sits."

“Through both the good and not so good times I have enjoyed Graeme’s indomitable spirit and good humour and will miss his presence in the business and on the board. 

"However, Graeme leaves Expro well positioned for the next up cycle and on behalf of my fellow board members I would therefore like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Graeme for his tremendous contribution over the past two decades to building Expro into the fine business that it is today," Arney added.

Richard Butland, a non-executive member of the Expro board, said: “Graeme has contributed greatly to the success of Expro and has shown dynamic, inspirational and visionary leadership. We all wish Graeme the very best as he broadens his horizons and look forward to remaining in close contact.”

A search will be conducted with the goal to select and transition a new chairman by the end of 2011, a statement said. – TradeArabia News Service